montanamomreads's reviews
700 reviews

Here's The Thing by Susan Henshaw

emotional funny sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Thank you to @susanhenshawauthor @bookedwiththeemilys for the #gifted e-book.

This is book four in the captivating Seddledown series, centered around the Dupree brothers. While it stands well on its own, it perfectly fits into the rich tapestry of their lives.

Ashton Dupree has harbored feelings for Tally Hawkins ever since their paths crossed nine years ago. Their shared passion for literature and undeniable chemistry make their bond special. However, Tally carries a secret that could jeopardize everything they’ve built together.

The witty banter between Ashton and Tally is both entertaining and heartwarming. The Dupree family embodies support and love, with strong bonds among the brothers that add depth to the narrative. This story takes you on an emotional journey, making you laugh and cry as it unfolds. The author skillfully navigates themes of love, loss, and redemption, crafting a tale that will linger in your heart long after the last page is turned. 

I truly adored the characters and their journey!  This book is available now. Don't miss it. 

PS: There are many triggersin the book, PTSD, attempted suicide, and discussions of past sexual abuse. 

The French Winemaker's Daughter : A Novel by Loretta Ellsworth

challenging emotional hopeful medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Thank you to @harperperennial, @netgalley and @lorettaellsworth_author for the #gifted e-book.

In this captivating dual timeline, we meet Martine and Charlotte. Martine, a young Jewish girl in 1942, narrowly escapes from German soldiers after her winemaker father is arrested. A nun discovers her and takes her to an abbey, where Martine's harrowing journey of survival unfolds. Nearly fifty years later, Charlotte stumbles upon a bottle of wine that carries a profound legacy and embarks on a compelling quest to uncover Martine's story. Their lives beautifully intertwine, leading to an incredible and moving conclusion.

I found both characters deeply relatable. The author's ability to evoke emotions as Martine endures the horrors of WWII is masterful. The vivid descriptions of wartime France and Charlotte's explorations of the wineries are stunning. From the very first page, I was entranced by the intertwining narratives.

If you're a fan of historical fiction, this book is a must-read!

Red Rising by Pierce Brown

adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Over the past year, I attempted to dive into this book at least three times before finally committing to a #buddyread organized by @bakers.bookends. I may have been slow to finish, but it was absolutely worth it. 

Despite not being an avid science fiction fan, this story captivated me from the start. The world-building was truly exceptional. Darrow emerged as a character you can't help but cheer for. As his world crumbles around him, he takes bold steps to achieve his ambition of dismantling the oppressive ruling class. The narrative is filled with unexpected twists and turns, making it incredibly difficult to put down. The writing kept me guessing about who Darrow could trust, adding to the suspense. The ending left me eager to continue the journey with the next book.

I highly recommend this read to anyone who enjoys science fiction. It's an experience you won’t want to miss! 

Definitely Better Now by Ava Robinson

emotional reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to @_mira_books_ @tlcbooktours @aavarson for the #gifted copy of this book.

This was an emotional and heartfelt book.  

Emma, a recovering alcoholic, has just celebrated one year of sobriety in a narrative that powerfully illustrates her journey. This story beautifully captures her experiences with Alcoholics Anonymous, the new friendships she cultivates, the romantic relationship she embarks on, and her emotional reconnection with her estranged father—all while staying committed to her sobriety. I was captivated by the theme of overcoming alcohol addiction. Emma’s growth and transformation are inspiring and relatable. The author expertly navigates the complexities of recovery, shedding light on the deep internal struggles involved in making sober choices.

This story resonates profoundly while addressing significant themes around addiction and healing. Don’t miss out; mark your calendars for the book’s release on December 17, 2024!

Flirting With Alaska by Belle Calhoune

hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Thank you to @bellecalhoun and @readforeverpub for the #gifted e-book.  

Visit Moose Falls, Alaska, and reconnect with the Stone boys in this delightful second installment of the series. Caleb Stone encounters single mom Sophia Brand, and their instant chemistry is undeniable. I thoroughly enjoyed diving deeper into the lives of the Stone brothers as they rally to support their grandmother's hard cider business.

This heartwarming, cozy romance exudes small-town charm and features significant character development, especially with Sophia navigating motherhood on her own. The playful banter between Caleb and Sophia adds an engaging touch that makes their connection feel authentic and enjoyable.

If you're a fan of cozy romances, this book is a must-read for you! Mark your calendars for December 10; I can’t wait to see more of the enchanting Stone brothers' adventures!

Last Christmas by Clare Swatman

emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to @clareswatmanauthor and @theboldbookclub for the #gifted e-book.  I joined the #lastchristmasreadalong. 

This book is an absolute gem that pulls you in from the very first page. It masterfully navigates the complex idea of dual alternate universes through alternating chapters labeled “stay” and “go.” Set over eight years in December, we follow the intertwined lives of Bea, Dom, and AJ, exploring the profound what-ifs of Bea’s choice between staying in London or venturing to New York. The characters are refreshingly diverse, and the author excels at portraying Dom’s mental health struggles with sensitivity and depth. Bea’s supportive friend group adds an uplifting layer to the narrative. Experiencing the charm of Christmas in both London and New York was a delightful touch.

This novel skillfully delves into themes of love, loss, mental health, and the critical choices that shape our lives.  If you enjoy compelling stories about alternate paths, this book is a must-read!

The Book Binder by C.A. Cordova

dark mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to @ccordovabooks @tlcbooktours for the #gifted copy of this book.

This book is a captivating journey filled with thrilling adventures and unforeseen moments that kept me engaged from beginning to end.

Aria stands out as an incredibly intelligent and resilient character for just 18 years old. Her journey to power and the clever ways she navigates challenges were truly fascinating. She embodies kindness and has an extraordinary ability to attract those who rally behind her. The transformation of the prince, from a charming figure into a crazed Pharaoh, adds a compelling twist to the narrative.

While some of the dialogue felt a bit too modern for the historical setting of the Pharaohs, it didn't detract from my enjoyment of this fast-paced and suspenseful novel. It beautifully captures the trials, tribulations, and extraordinary experiences faced by women during this era.

I eagerly hope for a sequel that will dive deeper into the fates of several characters and continue this enthralling tale.

If you have an appreciation for ancient Egypt and strong female leads, this book is a must-read for you!

Murder in Season by Mary Winters

adventurous lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Thank you to @marywintersauthor @severnhouseimprint @austenprose for the #gifted e-book. 

This is the third installment of the captivating A Lady of Letters Mystery series, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this cozy mystery! 

The enchanting setting of Victorian England truly brings the story to life—the vivid descriptions of parks, grand balls, and social events immerse readers in that era. The characters are wonderfully entertaining, with Lady Amelia showcasing remarkable fierceness and tenacity. Her sister Madge adds a delightful touch of feistiness, while Simon, her partner in both crime and romance, is simply the sweetest. As Lady Amelia delves into the investigation, we witness her unwavering determination not only to solve the murder but also to unravel the mystery of the jewel theft.

I particularly loved the humorous letters to Lady Agony at the start of each chapter—they added a delightful twist. I enjoyed this book so much that I’m eager to revisit the first two installments! 

If you have a passion for historical mysteries and Regency romance, this book is an absolute must-read!

To Shatter the Night by Katherine Quinn

adventurous mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to @bookedwiththeemilys @katherinequinnwrites @entangledteen for the #gifted copy of this book.

The highly anticipated sequel to the Mistlands duology has finally arrived, and it’s everything I hoped for! After thoroughly enjoying the first book, To Kill A Shadow, I can confidently say the sequel did not disappoint.

The characters were truly captivating, and the relationships that blossomed between the main characters were nothing short of extraordinary. The chemistry between Kiara and Jude unfolds beautifully as a slow burn, making their connection even more rewarding. I loved the theme of found family, and it was a joy to witness the various friendships and dynamics among the other characters. The world-building was exceptional, immersing me in a rich and vibrant setting. The quest to the moon temple was a thrilling adventure filled with suspenseful trials and traps that kept me on the edge of my seat.

If you’re a fan of fantasy blended with a touch of romance, this duology is a must-read!

Chasing Wild by Kristen Proby

hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I had to continue the journey of the Wild boys.  If you're looking for a delightful read, "Wilds of Montana" book 2 is a must! 

This charming small-town romance centers on Chase Wild and his sweet relationship with Summer. I was captivated by Chase's protective side and the satisfying happy ending. The bond between the women in this community showcases their strength and independence, which I found incredibly refreshing. Plus, the conclusion perfectly sets the stage for the next Wild brother, Ryan, in book 3. 

The narrators brought these characters to life in such a remarkable way, making me feel like I was right there in the midst of their journey. 

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories about cowboys, love, and close-knit families. It's a heartwarming read that's available now!